Former Christian Association of Nigeria President Rev Samson Ayokunle has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action against hunger, insecurity, and inflation in Nigeria. Ayokunle made this appeal while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the 10th anniversary of the Oritamefa Baptist Model School Cambridge A’Level College in Ibadan, Oyo State. He expressed concern over the growing economic hardship in the country.
Ayokunle lamented that it has become increasingly difficult for Nigerians to survive economically. He urged the President to implement policies that directly alleviate public suffering. The cleric noted that the removal of the petrol subsidy, although intended as a policy measure, has compounded economic hardship without sufficient measures to cushion its impact on citizens.
The former CAN president stressed that Nigeria requires determined leadership that is not complicit in security challenges to effectively tackle terrorism, banditry, and other social vices. He emphasized that the government must address the security situation firmly, saying that the moment leaders are no longer complicit in insecurity, Nigerians will breathe a sigh of relief.
Ayokunle expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current trials. He shared his vision for the country’s future, stating that Nigeria will still survive and that God’s will alone will manifest. The cleric urged political leaders to confront the security situation firmly and for Nigerians not to give up.
The cleric also spoke on the issue of education, commending the Oritamefa Baptist Church for its accomplishments in the field. He noted that Baptists are known for three principal ministries: church building, teaching, and medical provision. Ayokunle emphasized the need for the government to provide quality education and monitor allocations to ensure they are used for their intended purpose.
Earlier, Rev Remi Awopegba, the immediate past pastor of Oritamefa Baptist Church, advised Nigerian youths not to allow environmental constraints to limit their potential. He encouraged them to start from where they are, as progress is driven by vision rather than certificates alone. Awopegba recalled that the college started with only 29 students before expanding into a major academic institution.
Ayokunle concluded by highlighting the economic challenges facing Nigerians, stating that the current earning in Nigeria, compounded by the devaluation of the naira, has thrown many into abject poverty. He emphasized that a serious government must address this urgently and not play politics with human lives.
Key points
- Former CAN president Rev Samson Ayokunle urges President Tinubu to address hunger, insecurity, and inflation in Nigeria.
- Ayokunle emphasizes the need for determined leadership to tackle security challenges.
- The cleric expresses optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current trials.
